dictates

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

One feature of UK energy prices is that the price of gas often dictates the price of electricity, as gas-fired power stations are often the bit of energy that helps supply meet demand.

From BBC • May 13, 2026

Protocol dictates that it is unconventional to touch a member of the royal family.

From Barron's • May 1, 2026

The U.K. government can deploy the king abroad to woo foreign governments, but convention dictates politicians cannot embarrass the monarch.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

“That’s exactly what we’re working on,” she said, referring to the ambassador’s anti-corruption dictates.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 26, 2026

Grandmother Lucy says that decorum dictates I stay home unless you tell me it is all right to come.

From Each Little Bird That Sings by Deborah Wiles